Rehmannia glutinosa

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Other names for rehmannia glutinosa

Shu Di Huang (prepared)
Sheng Di Huang (raw)
Chinese Foxglove Root

Synopsis of rehmannia glutinosa

Rehmannia glutinosa is a perennial herb native to China and one of the most important tonic herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Known in Chinese as “Shu Di Huang” (when prepared) or “Sheng Di Huang” (when raw), this herb is prized for its ability to nourish the blood, replenish Yin, and tonify the kidneys and liver. The part used medicinally is the thick, fleshy root, which is rich in iridoid glycosides (especially catalpol), phenethyl alcohol glycosides, and amino acids.

In herbal medicine, Rehmannia is used in two primary forms: raw/unprocessed (Sheng Di Huang), which has cooling, blood-cleansing, and heat-clearing effects; and steamed/prepared (Shu Di Huang), which is warming, deeply nourishing, and rejuvenating to blood and Yin essence. The prepared form is more common in tonic formulas aimed at chronic weakness, anemia, hormonal deficiency, and age-related decline.

Rehmannia is particularly associated with endocrine balance, fertility, and immune modulation. It is often used to support menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, adrenal fatigue, dizziness, tinnitus, night sweats, and premature graying of hair—symptoms TCM relates to Kidney Yin or Blood deficiency. Studies have shown that Rehmannia may have anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effects. Some research suggests it can modulate immune activity and reduce bone loss, making it a potential ally in osteoporosis management.

Though rarely used alone, Rehmannia is a key ingredient in many traditional formulas such as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, Zuo Gui Wan, and Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan, often combined with other herbs that balance its moistening and cloying nature.

Historical Usage
Rehmannia has been used in China for over 2,000 years, with its earliest references found in classical texts such as the Shennong Ben Cao Jing (Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica), compiled during the Han dynasty. It was classified as a “superior herb”—one that can be taken over long periods to preserve vitality and extend life.

In TCM philosophy, the Kidneys are viewed as the storehouse of essence (Jing)—the vital substance governing growth, development, reproduction, and aging. Rehmannia’s role in replenishing this essence made it a cornerstone in formulas designed for longevity, reproductive health, and convalescence. It was especially recommended for patients recovering from hemorrhage, chronic illness, or emotional depletion.

By the Tang and Song dynasties, Rehmannia was widely prescribed for conditions such as diabetes (Xiao Ke syndrome), wasting diseases, blood deficiency, and menstrual disorders. The steamed version (Shu Di Huang) became a standard blood tonic for women and the elderly, while the raw form (Sheng Di Huang) was used for more acute conditions, such as high fever, nosebleeds, and dry mouth due to Yin deficiency.

Throughout its history, Rehmannia has been referred to as a “herbal elixir”, deeply nourishing and restorative but requiring balance in formulation due to its heavy and rich nature. Even today, it is considered indispensable in Chinese herbal pharmacies and remains a top-tier herb in both classical and modern formulas for hormonal, autoimmune, and degenerative conditions.

Rehmannia glutinosa is used for these health conditions

Anemia (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Skin (dry and/or flaky) (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)

rehmannia glutinosa is used to support these body systems

Adrenal Cortex (Traditional)
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Skeletal System (Bones) (Traditional)
Specific Hormones (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)